Steven Curtis Chapman - All Things New

Tuesday 5th October 2004
Steven Curtis Chapman - All Things New
Steven Curtis Chapman - All Things New

STYLE: Pop
RATING 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 11601-10410
LABEL: Sparrow SPD76897R
FORMAT: CD Album
RELEASE DATE: 2004-09-17
RRP: £12.99

Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Readers of CR82 will already know that this album by the CCM veteran represents a significant change of direction and though not quite the stylistic quantum leap of a "Jesus Freak", certainly represents a new beginning for Steven on his 14th album. Recorded in Los Angeles at the legendary Sunset Sound Studios with some fine, young musicians, 'All Things New' bristles with fresh pop rock vitality. Particularly arresting is the funky "Only Getting Started" which, propelled by some fiery axe licks by mainstream white blues guitarist Jonny Lang, also features a few nicely placed hip-hop record scratches. If that song's a little TOO rad for Steven's ageing fans, there are beautifully crafted songs like "What Now" and "Angels Wish" which show the Nashville songsmith has lost none of his way with memorable melody and lyric. Elsewhere there's a moving ballad about living life to the fullest, "Last Day On Earth", which one reviewer suggested could fit onto the next Coldplay album; a defiantly retro nod to the Beatles with "Big Story" and "Coming Attraction" which has a stadium rock sound of anthemic power. Throughout producer Brown Bannister brings the best out of Steven and both he and the Dove Award-toting singer should be congratulated for making an album which soars away from the formulaic patterns of a lot of recent Nashville CCM. Most of the songs here touch on themes of renewal and the need to care for the orphans and widows. The skilled songsmith drives home his messages with adept skill. If you're a long time Chapman fan looking forward to a creative return to form or a young turk into John Mayer and Five For Fighting and wanting a Christian alternative, here Mr Chapman delivers.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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Reader Comments

Posted by Don in state of Delaware @ 20:28 on Oct 7 2013

Nearly 2 years have gone by since the January 2003
"All About Love", September 2004 another new collection that begins with title "All" hits the market.
I first heard "Much of You" in video form, a live performance. I love the lyrics which many of us have felt similarites and connect with. The cd title song begins this great new adventure songset which I love, the tag of hallelujahs is awesome. Amy Grant's longtime producer Brown Bannister with Steven, has brought about fantastic ccm & pop sound to lift.
Listening to the song "Last Day on Earth" really speaks out with its heartfelt words, thanx Steven, I just love this song. Great music set to the song "What
Now" reminds of the verse "when you've done it unto the least of these you've done it unto Me"; the love of Jesus is so needed today. That old familiar Steven Curtis Chapman sound is heard on "Please Only You".
"Coming Attraction" is for now, great ccm for now. I'm right there with the above writer on "Big Story" a touch of Beatle's retro; maybe a re-recording with Paul & Ringo can still be had, time will only tell.
Mac Powell didn't miss his chance to sing on "Believe Me Now" wtg guys great song! "Angels Wish" has intro words many of us have thought and said, a song of simple beauty,again thanx Steven. Nice tribute song for his daughter Emily "I Believe in You": I love the bgv sound on the chorus of the song.
"Treasure of Jesus" was a nice chosen songset closer
wtg Brown & Steven for this wondrous work.
God bless, Don



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